Reflections from the cardinal: Ten thousand horses racing [萬馬奔騰]

by Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J.

In just over two weeks, various Asian countries will celebrate the Lunar New Year, marking the Year of the Horse. Unlike rats or snakes, horses are widely loved animals by people in general. A well-known painting of horses in China, known as the “Picture of a Hundred Horses” [百駿圖〕, was painted by the Jesuit artist Giuseppe Castiglione at the Ching Imperial Court back in 1728.

Those horses came in different shapes, sizes, colours, and postures. They could be seen resting, standing, or grazing peacefully. One could imagine they were, individually and communally, contemplating the world around them, exchanging their observations with neighbours, while enjoying each other’s company. Perhaps, it is an equivalent form of spiritual conversation among horses, as portrayed by a Jesuit artist. Just imagine.

But the more common manifestations of horses in Chinese paintings are racing or galloping. Horses are usually appreciated for their powerful speed, besides their beautiful physique. Hence, we use “horsepower” to represent this impressive trait of horses. How many horsepower is a vehicle equipped with, that will bespeak its physical and monetary values. 

Hence, if there were a hundred, a thousand or even ten thousand horses racing together towards the same direction, what an earth-shaking feeling that must yield. Just imagine the scene – clouds of dust, roaring noises, a trembling ground, exhilarating heartbeats, incredible power, freed to run, and a sense of accomplishment. 

This, I think, is a desirable picture we can contemplate for our Church, our city, and even our world: running, collectively and determinately, toward a discerned direction. Encouraging and helping each other to run together for a common goal that surpasses individual desires. What a beautiful image that will likely bring us joy and hope, especially for us who trust in a Supreme Being, who empowers and guides us, and to whom we respond with faith. 

Sadly, this is not the picture we are seeing in our world today, not only is this missing from the political arena, but also witness destruction inflicted on those who refuse to join the ‘gang.’ We are seeing gangs running in their own directions, clashing with other gangs and individuals. If you are not for us, you must be against us. Competitions have turned into ugly displays of egoism and horrific power plays. We should be worried that ‘positive competition’ has become a vanishing concept. But we must not allow ourselves to be drowned in the sea of sorrows or lost in the wilderness of despair either. 

A neophyte recently asked if I had ever experienced hopelessness. My reply was a clear NO. That is because I believe in a God who is ever faithful and loving toward me and everyone created in the love of God. God does not disappoint if we truly let God be God in our lives, not dictating to God for what only counts in our minds. We bring sorrows and hopelessness upon ourselves when we are fixated on only one or a few options that we regard as acceptable. But I have learned to honour God and to have faith in a God who has been taking care of me, even in the times when all seems dark.

And this is certainly applicable to all of us—our Church, Hong Kong, and the world — as we approach the Lunar New Year of the Horse. Rather than focusing on the divergences, let us build on the convergences. Instead of lamenting over what is lacking, let us rejoice in what is gifted. It is about not insisting on our own ways but exploring a communal approach that brings prosperity to all. And, not letting fears or anxiety dominate our decision making and taking, or suppressing dissensions, but discerning that reassuring voice of life and love that instils peace and generates hope within. 

Let the horses within us race together for the common destiny that will bring lasting peace and collective prosperity to all of us, transcending time and space. Finally, please allow me to take this opportunity to wish you all a truly loving, hope-filled and prosperous Year of the Horse! 

+ Stephen Cardinal Chow, S.J.